Barcelona Players Rack Up More Individual Awards

By: IBES

Fresh from having Xavi and Messi collect UEFA Club Football Awards, FC Barcelona reaped the benefits of winning the treble last season by winning the majority of the individual awards in the LFP Awards ceremony on Monday. Dani Alves, Xavi, Iniesta, Messi, and Sergio Busquets all received awards on their performances last season along with Josep Guardiola for his management of the club.

The LFP awards are voted by a committee of former and current players and managers. The players were in Madrid Monday night to collect their awards and club President Joan Laporta,Techincal Director Txiki Begiristain and External Relations Director Manel Estiarte also accompanied the players to attend the ceremonies.

Dani Alves was voted Defender of the Year with Gerad Pique being runner up. The award for best midfielder went to Xavi Hernandez ahead of Toure Yaya and Lass Diarrá. Andrés Iniesta won the award for the Attacking Midfielder of the Year ahead of Santi Cazorla of Villarreal and Valencia's Juan Mata. Sergio Busquets won the award for Best Newcomer ahead of Apoño of Málaga and Lassad of Deportivo. Unfortunately, Víctor Valdés did not win the award for his position with Iker Casillas winning the award as best keeper. However, Valdés did receive the Zamora trophy handed from Marca this week. The award is handed out to the keeper who conceeded the least amount of goals in a season.

It was no surprise as to who would win Manager of the Season, with Pep Guardiola duly awarded for his brilliant debut season. Unable to attend the ceremony, Manel Estiarte picked up the award on his behalf. Guardiola also won the Miguel Muñoz Trophy as last season's best manager which is also awarded by Marca. Vice-President Rafael Yuste accepted the award on behalf of Guardiola.

The Interview: Gunners/Gers

Tell us a bit about yourself …
Hi! I'm Adam, I'm 20, and I live in Aberdeen at the moment. I'm staying in a flat in the city centre, with my mate and my younger brother. I have two parents, and they live in Linlithgow (20 minutes west of Edinburgh by train) where I grew up. One set of grandparents - my Dad's parents died when I was 8. I'm obviously a Rangers and an Arsenal fan, to which I owe mainly to my Grandpa (Dad's dad) but I'll explain that later. My Dad grew up in South Shields and is a huge Sunderland fan, as is my brother. Funnily enough, my mums side of the family are all Newcastle fans!

In Aberdeen, I'm studying Computing for Graphics and Animation at Robert Gordon University. I'm in my third year of a four year course. I play squash and that's about the only sport - i do some general fitness work when i can be bothered though. Used to play tennis and football, but im mince at footy really. Most will know I'm a huge Metallica fan, but I'll give any type of music a chance - I'm into a lot of hiphop, trance, dance as well as metal, rock and indie etc. I have a guilty pleasure for some chart music when out drinking too!

It’s derby day next week! Think you’ll beat Spurs?
Of course! I'm ever the optimist. Seriously though, I think it'll be a close game, but we've got more quality. The West Ham result will act as a reminder to the players following our wee unbeaten run in the league, and we'll get the victory. That's not to say I don't rate the Spurs team - they've got some classy players (Hutton!), but I don't think they're good enough to challenge for a top 4 place this season.

If it was Arsenal vs. Spurs and Celtic vs. Rangers on the same day, which match would you attend?
The Old Firm match every time I'm afraid. The football would be nowhere near as good, but it's a bigger game. I'm a Rangers fan first - as depressing as that can be at times!

Would you like to see Rangers in the Premier League?
Ah, I had a feeling this would crop up. Yes, I would. I think the SPL is heading to a dark place financially - the tv deal fiasco was a killer. Pretty soon, with the terrible euro performances, we'll lose our automatic Champions League group place. That means our champions will need to face the 4th best side in England or something in order to qualify.

So no champions league - wages will be capped around £25k a week, which gets you little today when sides like Hull can afford to pay players 50k a week. Players won't want to come to play in the backwaters of the SPL only, we'll need to rely on youth and other SPL players. It's a depressing forecast, but without moving or some sort of sugar daddy coming in, it's all I can see.

Of course, I can understand why English clubs wouldn't want us. They don't need us, but we desperately need the cash thats being thrown around down there if we're to realise the potential of the club once again.

If Arsenal continue to go trophy less for a season or 2, will it be time for Mr Wenger to depart?
Difficult question. I'd be inclined to say no, but it would totally depend on how the seasons in question pan out. There's so much competition for silverware now in England, that it's a very possible situation - personally, I believe we'll win something this year. If the team performs well and just misses out, i wouldn't get rid of him. Who would you replace him with anyway?

What do you look forward to most, birthday or Christmas?
Birthdays definitely lose significance as you grow older - although my next one is 21, which is a big deal for whatever reason. So birthday this year, Christmas in the future I reckon.

What’s your opinion on the beach ball goal for Sunderland vs. Liverpool? Hard luck on Liverpool or a fair goal for Sunderland?
Well as i mentioned earlier, my Dad and brother are both Sunderland fans, so i quite enjoyed it! I think it's both actually - i'd have given the goal, but it's terrible luck for Liverpool you'd have to say. I think everyone forgotten though, that Sunderland deserved to win that game on the performance - they should've scored more in truth.

What do you need more? Car to get to work or work to get a car?
I don't have a job, and I don't have a car I don't need one at the minute, I'm in the centre of Aberdeen - everythings a 5 or 10 minute walk away. I do have a drivers license though, and im insured to drive my Mums mini cooper back home.

Would you ever consider moving to England, especially if it meant you could go and see Arsenal more?
I'd definitely consider it, depending on the situation. It'd be a long time away though - but im not particularly a fan of the busy London city scene.

At a movie theatre which arm rest is yours?
Right - unless im at the furthest left seat. I'm not unreasonable.

Why does a round pizza come in a square box?
So it's easier to get you hand in to pick up the pizza I would guess!

Did you enjoy losing to enzo in xpert 11? You can say what you want about the titles you won but how did it feel to lose that season to him? it probably hurt a lot didn't it?
That was the flukiest season ever. Enzo couldn't handle the heat in the end though, and bowed out a beaten man

If Rangers or Arsenal were to change their strip colour to pink, would you wear the shirt?
Probably not. I never buy the kit if I don't like it - I've got the current Arsenal and Rangers home shirts, but not the away ones, not a big fan of them.

How are you finding university?
It's going quite well thank you! I recieved a £250 cash award at the RGU prizegiving in the summer for hard work, so i must be doing something right. This semester has been quite boring so far though - lots of lectures and not much practical work on the computers.

What made you get into graphics and arts and so forth?
I've always been quite artistic - i get that from my gran apparently. I never got into computer graphics work until I joined this forum though - I did a tutorial by Reville, and the rest is history. I did Graphic Communication at higher and advanced higher in high school, and this course im studying now just sounded perfect.

What annoys you in the forum?
Foley

Do you have any interest in politics?
No, not really. I try to stay current and watch the news and Question Time etc, but it's not a subject that captivates me. I certainly wouldn't feel comfortable getting into a political debate on the forum for instance.

Why Arsenal and Rangers?

The golden question!

Rangers - My dad says he wanted to let me choose my own team, and wouldn't force Sunderland upon me. My Grandpa bought me a Rangers kit though - he was a big Rangers man - and since I was Scottish and he said i should support the best team in Scotland. I also really liked blue, so it was a perfect match!

Arsenal - When I was in primary school, everyone had an 'English' team - usually Man Utd. I used to think i started to support them because my Grandpa also did, but i asked my dad recently, and that wasn't true - he would talk about the Gunners, and i thought it was a cool name, so they became my English team. Some people dropped their English team when they got older, but I couldn't, and I can't stop now.

Some people get offended when you support two teams, because there is twice the chance of glory (especially with two successful sides like Rangers and Arsenal), but all I can say is that i get twice the heartache when they don't do well - which has happened a lot recently! It'd be a lot easier to just support one of them if I'm honest, but there's nothing I can do about it now.

Do you get paid for every sig you make?
I wish

Do you like cheesy Wotsits?
Is this some sort of innuendo? I like the crisps. I used to eat them a lot, but i put on too much weight in the summer of 2008 so i stopped eating them.

Opinion on Kris Boyd? Seems a very good goal scorer, but appears to not be liked by many
The enigmatic Kris Boyd. He'd be world class if he had some movement. As it is, he's an immobile lump and it's like playing with 10 men sometimes when he's on the park and not scoring. He'd be in my team every week in the SPL though (except maybe against celtic) because he's lethal against the smaller sides. I fully advocate not playing him in Europe - we can't afford to have a striker that won't work the line in these type of matches.

Are there any members that you would like to see back on the forum?
xaidensxghirlx, although not for the sleazy reasons of many She's a lovely girl and would add a lot to the Scottish section. I can see her pictures whenever on facebook anyway!

What’s your most memorable experience so far in life?
That difficult, I would say i haven't been around long enough or gone through anything huge yet. Passing my driving test was a big moment, if cliched. Moving to Aberdeen on my own was also quite a big step for me.

Do you class yourself as British or Scottish?
Both, and I'm proud to be both.

Favourite ever Rangers/Arsenal player?
Ally McCoist was my absolute hero when I was growing up, although I loved Albertz too - when i was too young to be interesting in watching full games, my dad would watch them for me, and i have a resounding memory of him running through every week saying "Albertz has scored a freekick!" or "Albertz has scored a penalty!". It seemed to happen all the time. For Arsenal, it would have to be Henry, and I'd love to see him back at the club.

Family guy or south park?
South Park is the best cartoon ever made, I love it. I do enjoy Family Guy though, but it's just not in the same league.

Who do you hate/dislike more, the Welsh, Irish or English?
I don't "hate" any in general - my parents are English, but I really hate the media furor around the English national team when they qualify for a major tournament. It's their year again next year, I don't know if you've heard?

I also hate the plastic paddy culture that surrounds Celtic, but I've nothing against Ireland in general.

I quite like the Welsh, the accent is funny - i couldn't take a Welsh person seriously.

Do you have any pet hates?
People going Madrid and Barca in PES - it infuriates me.

When my flatmate leaves a basin of dirty water with loads of plates in it in the sink.

Crowded streets.

Drivers that dont give you a wee wave when you do them a favour! Cvnts!

Should the war with Afghanistan come to an end now or are they right to be sending more troops out?
Big question. I don't know all the facts about Afghanistan, and I don't think I could make a judgment call on something like that without knowing my stuff so to speak. I know that sounds like a question dodge, but i really don't read enough on it.

You and Barca 009 are great at what you do and both are from Scotland, is there some art renaissance taking place there that we do not know about?
It's only because it's too wet to go outside, so we stay inside on our computers all day.

Have you met Barca 009 and what do you think of his work?
No, i haven't even spoken to him in years like. Is he still around? Must be hiding in the Barca forum! He was class back in the day, certainly better than me.

What members would you hit the town with? You can have up to 6 but no more!
Tough one, i dont speak to a lot of people outside the forum but...aidensghirl, Lil Yiddo, Trublustuuk, Albertz, Blue & CelticRugby

Who will get the light blues out of the financial mire?
Hopefully Dave King. Although there are rumours of a Graeme Souness fronted consortium...to be honest, it's got the point where I'd just about take anyone with a bit of cash.

If you could sign anyone from Celtic who would it be?
I really like Maloney as a player. I was hoping we'd buy him when he was going cheap at Villa actually...controversial. Other than that, I think Scott Brown is destined to end up at Rangers in the future.

Artur Boruc....discuss
Utter plank. I think that he's not all there mentally. Hates the Rangers fans more than he loves the Celtic ones. Prone to big errors, never good enough for atruly top side. He will stay at Celtic for the forseeable future, because nobody will pay more than £5m for him.

Why do you support the Arse as well as Rangers...it's a heck of a mixture innit...about as strange as Chesterfield and Rangers...urmmm...time to shut up
Haha, I answered this one earlier Blue! Rangers and Arsenal do actually have some history together i believe, although i could be wrong on that.

Who do you hate more and why, Celtic fans or Tottenham fans?
Celtic fans, because i know more. If you'd ever read the Huddleboard, you'd hate celtic fans too.

Your sensational at making sigs, what drives you to spend hours doing favours for people you barely know, are you Jesus?
Thank you! It's just something i enjoy doing, although i do sometimes lack the motivation for it. All i ask is people be considerate and patient, sometimesi don't have the time for it. Which they are on the most part, to be fair.

One poster you'd love to have a beer with?
I'd definately have two jugs with Kirstie.

Interview compiled by Lil Yiddo with questions submitted by members of Soccer 24-7.

Away Days: The Globalization of the EPL

By: Manic Loop

Having seen the “spectacle” that was American Football coming to England again it got me thinking a lot about the scheme the Premier League tried to implement a couple of years ago about staging matches abroad.

Now I for one really am against the notion of these teams playing games on foreign soil. It doesn’t actually add anything to the experience, just manages to fill someone’s pockets. I like their talk though when they try to make out it’s about giving something to the fans. It simply smacks to me of teams forgetting who made them. The fans

Now it kind of works easier for American sports. Most of them are simply franchises that never did start were they are playing anyway, so to lose a connection with the roots isn’t a big deal (at this juncture I will admit that yes, a number of American teams have never moved city) But really Manchester United, Arsenal or Liverpool hosting a game that has meaning in Hong Kong or Shanghai just seems inherently wrong.

Apart from MK Dons every single British team has grown up in its city, the likes of Arsenal may have moved across the city they are in, but they have always been a London club. To have a club of their ilk wanting to play games abroad, well that’s fine as long as it’s a friendly. One of these increasingly common foreign pre season tournaments. But a game that has meaning? I don’t like that one bit.

The only game like that I would take abroad would be the Community Shield. It is a game that counts per se, but no-one actually cares about it. So play that on a rotation. My case in point is would the NFL allow the Super Bowl to be played outside of the America. No.

The whole idea seemed laughable. Let’s play a 39^th game, when the clubs already complain about fixture congestion. Let’s be flying halfway round the world just because some rich chairman wants to make a few extra pounds.

I also imagine there would have to be a kind of seeding for this. If it was a random fixture can you really imagine the people of Dubai or New York being excited about Wigan v Hull? So of course there would have to be a system whereby each city gets a “good” team.

The other main factor to me is what message does this send to the host cities domestic league. It’s a huge insult to them. The A League in Australia would be hugely undermined if they hosted a game in Sydney or Melbourne.

Now I know the idea was shelved, but it wasn’t permanently forgotten. Make no bones the Premier League will have watched with interest today’s events at Wembley. And when the NBA comes to the O2 Arena too, that will be noted.

So anyway, yes. The NFL razzmatazz came to Wembley. I just hope we don’t reciprocate.

Yes, the Forum is down.

Go here and post until its sorted Lads and Lassies:

http://74.55.78.50/forum/index.php

Member Interview: Heneage

Tell us a bit about yourself …
I'm 20. An incredible mix of English, Italian, Danish and recently found out French Scottish. Born in Newcastle to Lorraine and Brian. A little brother Dan and a little dog called DJ who is like a brother due to my Parents spoiling him rotten.

Lived in Washington (Sunderland) and moved to Durham in 96, went to school got A-levels now training to be a TV News anchor (That's right Anchor) and journalist/PR man, think Ari Gold from Entourage. Run the family book-keeping business since rents retired. So always working.

Why does Shearer get so much stick from a lot of people, especially on this site, even though he seems a top bloke?
He gets a rep for being moody by work mates of mine. Can't say I've met the bloke, but I think it's because he was the model professional, never fell out of clubs or had affairs, but was England's best striker. He does a bucket for charity and recently opened a play centre for disabled kids, something I don't think he does for the credit he just does it because he can. I think Man Utd fans will always hate him for turning them down, as my Dad says "To them you do not turn down Manchester United" Its sad because he did a lot for football and scored against teams from Stevenage to Inter, In a way I feel for him that he didn't win more.

What do you think of Religion? Ever questioned your beliefs?
I believe. Have I questioned it? Many a time. When I was 17-18 I had 2 family members die in 2 weeks, one of my family was outed as a paedophile My dad had a nervous break down, and my mum was paralyzed and almost died. My parents were good people they are my family, I went through a period of hating God, because he hurt two people that had believed in him and that I loved and given me so many things to deal with at a young age, but it made me stronger, I can deal with more now, I don't get as angry or bitter about things. I went through a period of heavy drinking and in part its why I ****ed up my A-Levels I could have done a lot better. But the way I see it, why blame God, it gets me nowhere, I could sit down and be bitter and say "Why did my football career never take off" etc, but then I'd be sat at 40 alone and bitter, instead I work damn hard to secure money to look after my family the best I can. I don't ask God for anything, because that shouldn't be how it works, you shouldn't ask God for money or a good job, you should earn it through your own hard work, you should only look at him to give you strength to achieve the goals you set out.

Why do you react so childishly when people have a bit of banter about your football team yet banter in any other form, you seem to enjoy?

Santi- I've been a Newcastle fan for 15 years. I've had so much shit you wouldn't believe. My only gripes with "Banter" about NEwcastle is if it's;

Misinformed- Claiming Xisco is on 50k
Old- Keep it up to date, you tell the same jokes every week at the comedy store it gets old mighty quick.

Whats with the avatar and sig? They make me laugh but explain?
I'll be honest, I'm a wind up. That Orient kid clearly doesn't get what I tried to explain to Geeman about not biting, when he does it will cease, if you don't respond to my jokes then I will get bored.

How did you feel when the full time whistle went at villa park?
Dejected springs to mind. It didn't sink in really. Like the Prem badges are still on the shirts, Sky Sports still has you in the league.

It's a sad day, a lot changes quickly. The players you were going to buy, teams you were going to play. In a way you miss the most what you got used to the most. Relegation has never threatened this club till this season. Even then you think the squad's good enough but it wasn't. It hurt to go down to a goal like that too, a deflection. That's when you think "Aye it's meant to be" .

Whats your problem with orient and santi?
Santi bores me more than anything, his humour's poor, and he doesn't allow for banter as he doesn't pick a club team, then like a Parrott goes "My team's Newcastle" it's sad I'm sure he's a decent bloke.

Orient I just feel for. He's like most lads o'f 16. Thinks he's a bit pretty doesn't want to take **** off the older lads, when he realises that to stop getting it you stop biting he'll be a happier lad.

Do you follow newcastle falcons rugby team?
Not really. I went to school with a girl who knows most of them from working there, but Rugby's not my game. Our Rugby team were dick heads.

Why dont you like newcastle fans who aren't from newcastle?
Are you kidding? I love any Newcastle fan that isn't negative about the club and constantly shitting on it, a fan supports not detracts.

Why do you run and tell tales to admin/mods when someone tries to have a bit of crack with you?
Crack isn't constant insults and jokes from 2003. There's a few on here I'll banter with likes of Stone Monkey and Bamber Naz SMG all of those, it has to be give and take, if you don't have a team I can't give it back. Know what I'm saying?

How did you feel when santi was banned from the newcastle forum?
In a way happy because it stopped his terrible jokes. I've told him numerous times, pick a club team then we'll have some banter. Its like going on a date and not being allowed to ask any questions, its not a date then it's an interview.

Do you enjoy coca cola? I think you should
The irony here is, I fuckin love it. Like I say I didn't support us because we were top of the league, I was lucky to witness the Keegan era of Newcastle in the 90's I grew up watching some of the best football this leagues ever seen.

Plus it'll be a nice change of scenery and the chance to meet Robert!

You've made comments in the past about some of Newcastle's fans that aren't from the area. Do you really believe that just because someone wasn't born in Newcastle, that they can't fuilly love the club? If so, does living there automatically raise your status above them?
Of course not. My statements were aimed at explaining that someone who doesn't live here won't grasp the full sense of the club. If I'm a cunt for saying that then so be it. But I was there when we beat Sunderland 2-0 and Man Utd 4-3. I walk past the Chronicle seller by Eldon Square I see this club on a daily basis, I had trials at the club so to me I do to an extent feel like I know it more. But I would never say that because you are foreign you can't be a fan, that's nuts, this summer I have a lad from Norway coming to watch a game with me.

How would you rate yourself, looks wise? You strike me as someone who gets a boner looking at themselves in the mirror, but i'm not quite sure why....
I would never rate myself looks wise. It's an incredibly arrogant thing to say "I'm hot" as what's hot? I take care of myself and like to look presentable, if that means I think I'm hot then so be it, I can't change that, I was raised to always look presentable, but I don't spend vasts of money on clothes. But I'm probably a bit of a prettyboy/spiceboy.

I've been lucky enough to go out with girls that are very attractive, and it's been said I'm cute a bit like a puppy.

You bounce around from thread to thread criticising many teams.....yet seem to be completely oblivious to the fact that you're own team is beyond ****- is it some sort of escape mechanism for you?
I wouldn't say I criticse teams. But I just give my opinion on stuff. I think every team has it's things that fans will ignore, we all have our elements of bias. I admit my team are **** right now I'd be daft to say other wise. I won't make excuses, we were good 4-5 years back but right now we need gutting. But I don't see why because of my own teams frailities I shouldn't be allowed to comment on other teams. Forum means discussion remember.

Do you feel foolish for not listening to numerous Liverpool fans warning you about Owen and his Judas ways when he joined, as you brought into every word of his?
Did I? I can honestly say I never felt like Owen was ours. I mean he was scoring, and I define a football fan not to be happy when a strikers scoring. But I would never say he was happy to be here. I tell you what's funny if it wasn't for us getting Owen you wouldn't have got Torres. It was Owen or Torres would you believe, and we picked Owen. On paper back then you see why, but that's football. I hope he has a good end to his career.

When will you finally admit the Toon are up the **** creek without a paddle when it comes to their finances
Er, we need to ship bodies no doubt, but in a sense Ashley's wealth is helpful. The money we own to creditors is money owed to Ashley he loaned us the money, it won't be pretty for us but hopefully we can come out of it.

Where does the username Heneage come from?
It's Danish/Norwegian. There's a town in Norway called Heneage and there was a Danish knight called Heneage that I believe I'm descended from. It's a cool name and a bit different, as is my first name. As a kid it was annoying but older I get the more I love it.

When do you think Newcastle will get back to the EPL?
Of course, we are ever the optimist us Geordies. Back next season then push for europe

Nah but seriously, I've had a lot of time for reflection and this should allow for lots of dead wood to be removed which can only be a blessing.

Would you like to be a 24-7 mod?
Heck yeah. I think sometimes too many on here become bogged down with points scoring and digs, you need to be a little laid back to be a mod.

Chris Waddle...discuss
Ha the man the myth the legend. Bit before my time but still of what I've seen a great player, shocking pundit mind. I have a video of my Dad and Uncle miming to that song him and Hoddle did seeing as my Dad was a Geordie who played winger for Dunlops Motors and my uncle (None blood) was from the south and it was an injoke as they had longish hair. So for that I'll always thank Wor Chrissy.

Who did you bribe to vote for you in order to win the interview nomination?
I bribed no one, I know who the winning vote was, Captain Howdy a toon fan.

Aren't you ashamed that you've been interviewed before yet played dirty in order to get another spin?
Stop it sultan.

What’s your favourite childhood memory?
This will show you how Football Obsessed I am. My first game back after the suspected broken foot. My Dad worked Sundays at Nissan most weekends so rarely got to see me play. But he booked the weekend off, we went Go-Karting the Saturday, and to Chester Market, then he took me to JJB to get some new boots, Nike Total 90's in Black and Grey. Then McDonalds for tea.

We were playing the team bottom of the league on the Sunday and they were bad but really dirty, and they had a bad tempered midfielder, who would kick out and get pissed off as he was better than most of the team.

We slept in and got stuck in traffic so I didn't arrive right until kick off so I didn't start and I was gutted. Within no time we were 3-1 down just because our team was being lazy and really was showing the opposition no respect. Just before half time the lad that had taken my spot was kicked by this midfielder and the coach brought me on. Knowing my Dad was watching on was like a red rag to a bull. I took to that pitch like a man possessed and after calming down I set about to play my best game I've played to date. I was playing in the middle, and everything I was trying came off, with about 10 minutes left it was 3-3 and I'd set up both. I was knackered and really should have come off as my ankle was playing up but I refused to come off.

With 5 minutes left, I got the ball on half way and just ran at their defence about 25 yards out I just smashed this ball pure hit and hope and it smashed off the crossbar and into the goal. Queue the most over done celebrating from my team-mates you've ever seen. I just ran straight to my Dad and jumped at him, think Emre with Souness. We won the game 4-3 and I got man of the match. I think it's more special because he was watching you can tell anyone a story about a game, but it's different when they are there, and now he can't watch me because he's not well enough it makes it more special, to know he's seen both his boys boss a game and play well.

Are there any sports you just don’t see the point of?
Rugby totally. I played that as I was nippy as a 15 year old, I did one training session got kicked in the head and was like what the fuck this isn't sport this is Friday night in Newcastle when we lose.

What set of football fans really annoy you? Premier league and lower league.
Erm I'm dunno to class one set of fans and say "They annoy me" would be daft. Sunderland fans have been more funny this last few weeks believing a Dynasty is on the way fronted by Kieran Richardson, and saying how Jones has potential to out score Shearer. Stoke fans were cunts mind when they came up to SJP in the cup last season. But Man Utd were the nicest would you believe.

What’s you favourite type of music?
My Ipod is all sorts. French Hip Hop Indie metal rock, but right now I like a bit of Paolo Nutini, Neil Young, Bob Dylan the older stuff, I don't feel like much of Today's music has any feeling, it's all "I bought new jeans I got pissed, I kissed a girl" You have to connect with your audience, you have to sing about stuff they know about but not make it cliche and bland to the point where it could be any band that begins with "The" and has been on Radio 1.

If you could go to any gig/concert, who’s would it be?
I'd take My Dad and me to see Neil Young. It's the one artists he likes he's never seen and I think he'd love it.

Are there any members you would like to meet up with for a drink or two?
Erm Tom Nufc, Stone monkey IBES Bossa the people that are relaxed, Sultan would be cool I guess. I'm easy going too many people put up a front on here.

But I'll be having a pint with Rob next season who's a real good friend.

If it was one or the other, which would you rather be? Deaf or blind?
Difficult. Because you'd never see the face of those you love, or never be able to hear their voices. I guess deaf, as you can overcome that easier than you can blindness. Like I could still play football.

Did you vote in the general election?
I did yeah. I don't know many that did but I did. I still think it's horrendously corrupt mind. I mean imagine if you got caught nicking from your job, or claiming extra petrol for the company car, you'd get sacked quicker than you could say sorry, but politicians have this brilliant way of either keeping their job or getting a fat pay off. I'm envious I guess.

Are you a boobs, legs or arse man?
You know what I'm holistic it's the sum of all parts. Boobs are so nice, but then I went out with a girl who had the nicest little arse that would just bob up and down as she walked like two hamsters skipping rope. Legs can be nice too, but I like a girl with a degree of class, I don't want it hanging out like we're in Amsterdam, plus I have gotta be able to talk to her. I met a girl last week who was beautiful, truly perfect, but to her Plato was what she ate her dinner off in Magaluff. Mind you I was probably out of her league haha!

Is there anyone that you look up to or have looked up to? Like a role model?
Gotta be my parents. Two simple people raised in council houses that were the most successful business people in the North East, who had it all and then lost it yet aren't bitter. I know it sounds corny as shit and like it's from a Disney move, but they shaped me and made m who I am I work hard for myself and for them.

Marriage, yay or nay?
Yeah eventually. I'd assume the girl I fall in love with will want it. I come from a stable home in terms of my parents are celebrating thei'r 33rd wedding anniversary Friday the 3rd, I think that can sometimes shape you. What you see is what you want to a degree. I'm not desperate to get married, but it would be cool.

Have you ever had a serious injury?
Yeah I broke my wrist playing football, and once thought I'd broken a foot week before a trial.Both in games, one was a bruiser that just did not like the pretty little boy doing tricks.I was put in over the top and was clean through when he just came in behind me and just went for my foot ankle whatever he could get. I had this horrible vision of it being over then and there, and I'd not broken anything before but you don't know you have no scale of pain yet, so when you feel a new level of pain you think "fuck its broken".

My wrist was in a trial game for a team and was a 50 50 that I won the lad didn't mean it and I knew it. It was 8 weeks out and my love life fucked.

If you could do one thing to improve the forum, what would it be?
Just chill people out a bit more. Everyone gets so angry and angsty it's weird. And merge the man Utd Liverpool forum, it would be like dissolving the Gaza or Gazza strip as my mate calls it.

Interview compiled by Lil Yiddo with questions submitted by members of Soccer 24-7.

American(s) Abroad

By: Celticrugby

I sat around awhile debating on what to call this article, or what might be a series of articles chronicling the life and times of an American soccer fan supporting his national team. I ended up settling on “American(s) Abroad” because we (as US soccer fans) are truly aliens in our own country to some extent, especially in regards to the world's most popular sport. Always outnumbered, but not always out sung. That's what I say.

Our experience is a unique one. Most around the world may have had the experience of being an “away fan”. It gives them a buzz to go to some EPL match and sit in the stands in rival territory. However, that's a choice.

You as an Arsenal fan are choosing to go to White Hart Lane and sit and cheer on your team against “the enemy”. Here, it's not a choice. It's reality. You are an away fan. Every game.

Except, this time it's in your country, in your city, and in your stadium. It's a bit of a bizarro universe, and for as much flak as the international media gives United States soccer (Sawker!111) fans I don't think they know what the diehards go through or give them credit for it.

They just slander the fan that doesn't care for the game (like those who prefer one sport to another would do to someone), rather than talk about the supporters who defy international law and go to Cuba for a world cup qualifier because it's their team and they are indeed that passionate to do so.

Do you know what kind of testicular fortitude it takes for an American to go to Cuba? It takes the same kind of fortitude it took some Spartak Moscow fans to go to an away game back in the old Soviet leagues when travel outside of your city was banned.

We're talking serious ramifications. Not, sneaking on a flight to get to Lisbon for a CL Final or jumping a turnstile to get into a game with a slap on a wrist a small fine or maybe a night in the drunk tank, but fines in the tune of thousands of dollars, felonies and jail time.

But of course, we are from the land that calls the sport soccer, and we don't worship it like others think we should, so things like that get overlooked. Instead, stereotypical negatives are shoved down our throats, and our own old white guy sports media even buys into a lot of it (using the same mentality on US soccer fans as other fans and media do abroad).

Despite this never ending cycle of bullshit, as we kids say 'hatin on' our fan base increases, our passion grows and our family gets larger (and some, are beginning to listen).

In my own personal experience I for one am an away fan at pretty much every sporting event I've been to since I moved from Minnesota to Michigan. However, there is a difference being an away fan of an American sport in an American stadium, than it is to be a US soccer fan in a US stadium when you are outnumbered 4 to 1 or 6 to 1 by the opposition and you are “at home”. Entirely different feelings, emotions and a more intense buzz.

At the end of the games against Mexico and Honduras I knew our team couldn't lose, because the walk out of Chicago's Soldier field would be too unbearable to endure. When it's say the Minnesota Twins losing to the Detroit Tigers, you don't get that kind of feeling at all. Does it fucking suck when you lose? Yes, of course. However for me and for at least the sport of soccer, and the US national team is on a completely different plain of intensity, nerves and sometimes pain.

There are some countries that I believe could be in the same boat we are those being Canada and Australia, ones with large immigrant populations but I can only speak for my own.

For any Canucks or Aussies out there, that would like to share with us their experiences please let me know and shoot us an email at: Soccer247blog@gmail.com.

Originally I planned for this to be a running diary of the USA/Costa Rica match, which I watched with the Motor City Supporters Group (a group of Detroit soccer fans who get together for matches I have recently met up with) and I was going to intro it with a bit about what it's like to be “one of us”. It ended up turning into an entirely different article in itself (this one), and one where I could easily ramble on further.

Stay tuned for my running diary of the game that saw the US qualify for in the #1 spot in CONCACAF for the world cup.

I took eight pages of notes, so you'll likely get a kick out of it....or at least a different viewpoint of how fans of other countries around the world support their teams.

Until then...Americans, I think Nike might have it right on this one:


Sometimes a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Take that step and buy into your national team.

Primadonna – too much heart not enough head.

By Heneage

Diego Armando Maradona is by far Argentina’s greatest son. The star of their 1986 world cup win, the little magician blended pace, skill and trickery to become one of the world’s best players. On the field he captained the side with a ferocity and heart which few Argentine captains since him have shown.

So when in November 2008 he was named as the new manager of the national side, the theory seemed clear, great leader on the pitch means a great leader off the pitch. However, one thing that appears to have been overlooked about Maradona, is his volatile nature, which is best encapsulated in the now infamous celebration during World Cup 94, in which he screamed at the camera like a man possessed.

And this is where his detractors distaste stems. When you look at the starting line up from Montevideo on Wednesday there are notable absentees. Esteban Cambiasso, Walter Samuel, Nicholas Burdisso, Javier Zanetti, Fernando Gago, Maxi Rodriguez, Diego Milito and Lisandro Lopez. The list reads like a who’s who of Argentine talent based in Europe, a second XI almost.

Maradona has had very public fallings out with players, he ignored Gonzalo Higuain for much of this World Cup campaign, whether this was due to the Madrid strikers River Plate connections it is unknown, but he did his chances of future selection no harm by scoring on his debut against Peru Saturday evening.

But the night in Buenos Aires belonged to another striker, 36 year old Boca legend Martin Palermo, who’s international career looked finished when he famously missed 3 penalties in a 3-0 victory to Colombia some ten years previous.


And it was deep into injury time that the big target man pounced on a speculative cross shot to tap in during what can only be described as torrential wind and rain in the countries capital. And while Maradona may now seem validated in his selection of Palermo, and Wednesday’s hero Mario Bolatti who struggled to make Porto’s first team last year you fear this may have been more luck than judgment, and questions are to be raised over these players ability to perform next summer in South Africa.

During his tenure of just under a year Maradona has handed international debuts to more than seven players with his last squad including ten domestic players. And this is why many are tipping Diego to struggle next summer, he has already in his short time as manager shown a leaning towards managing with his heart instead of his head. While it would would be fantastic to have 23 domestic players like the Italy squad of 2006, in modern football this is often difficult to achieve, and players must be picked on merit not location.

Maradona now must put aside his own grievances with players and much like Capello with England pick the best eleven available, if he is to stand any chance of reclaiming the World cup for his country almost a quarter of a century after he lifted the famous trophy himself.

Is Robinho really the answer?

By: IBES

So Robinho seems to be the next big thing that Pep wants. Really? Is that what we really need to help this team? According to both, the Spanish and English press, it seems that Robinho will be the big signing for this team during the winter transfer period. Somehow, I think the money could be spent elsewhere.

Let’s look at the pros and the cons of this transfer possibility shall we. We will examine the pros first. He is only 25 years old, plays on the left and is not cup tied for the Champions League. He also has a giant chip on his shoulder after the way he was treated by Real Madrid. Robinho was supposed to be getting a new deal by Real Madrid but they kept delayed it and then dangled him to Manchester United to get Cristiano Ronaldo. The deal fell through and Robinho had had enough and demanded to be transferred. The last time the club signed a former Madridista; Eto’o helped the team win three league titles and two Champions League titles. Another motivating factor would be the fact that the World Cup is coming up soon and he wants to be match fit and in a happier environment.

However, let’s examine the cons too. Robinho’s arrival will not be cheap. According to Sport, he could come on a loan for the second half of the season at a cost of €3 million or can be bought for over €30 million. Another issue is his attitude. Robinho has never been one to be without issues or controversy and does the club need to have someone here after getting rid of one player that the manager did not get along with. He already had an incident with Manchester City last season with his flight to Brazil without permission allegedly. His comments that Manchester City needed to change their small-time mentality sure is not exactly music to fans ears. After what the club went through with Eto’o, why would Pep have a different feeling about Robinho? Also, will he be well behaved off the field or will we see him out at night? Seems like too many questions marks come with the transfer.

Robinho is a very talented player who I admired watching with Diego during their Santos playing days but in the end, why take such a risky and expensive gamble on him. Ajax’s Luis Suárez is only 22 years old, can play on the left and has done well adapting to European football over at Ajax without a great supporting cast. He is also not cup tied for the Champions League since he is only involved in the Europa League. I also doubt Ajax would ask for over €30 million and we can perhaps get him and loan them Kerrison in return. It also helps that he is a fan of the club.

Another name would be Landon Donovan. He is not cup tied for the Champions League and although he has been around forever it seems, he is only 27 years old. He can come on a loan for the second half of the season and would be a great player to have rotated with Iniesta and Xavi seeing as Cesc is realistically not coming to the club this winter break. He can run with the ball, set up players quite well, another lethal free kick taker and not a bad scorer himself too. He is no stranger to the team after playing in the Confederation’s Cup and the first game of the USA tour this past summer.

I know those two players are no saints either. Landon has been accused of being invisible at times and seemed to take the easy way out when he opted to return to the MLS and not fight it out in Germany. Luis is known to be a diver and gets booked too often for it and is known to be a bit theatrical. However, I still think it would be money well spent and just what the team needs over Robinho who we do not know if will do well or sulk and create distractions. Why splash the money on one player when you can get two for the price of one and solve two problems. Luis can play on the left for Henry and allow Iniesta to excel in the midfield while Landon can rotate with Xavi and Iniesta and give them the much needed rest for rotations too.

Only time will tell what the club will decide is right for the club and hopefully it will be right decision.

Notts Clownty


By: Manic Loop

For a while on the red side of the Trent we have jokingly referred to Notts County as Clownty.

I’ll be fair, I’ always had a soft spot, and regarded them as not a rival but mere neighbours.

Rather than neighbourly conflict, I have always seen it as a friendly rivalry.

The recent takeover has somewhat changed matters though.

One of the stated aims quoted by Peter Trembling, the chief executive, is to be bigger than Nottingham Forest. Now if you want to have any integrity I’d argue the first thing not to do is to start throwing your weight around.

If you moved into a new home, as the owners have, you don’t immediately try and upset your neighbours. This seemed to be the first thing County did.

I was amazed that one of the very first moves was t unveil a new club logo. One that suddenly includes purple. It’s a bad sign when you have to explain what some of the things you have put on to signal your new era mean (Is that a H, is that an arrow?)

And then came Sven. This more than raised eyebrows. The massively successful and decorated Swede was coming to League Two? And to a club that has for the last few seasons struggled to maintain their league status? Something didn’t add up.

Following Sven, they started signing fairly prestigious players for their level. For that I give them credit. As much as Lee Hughes is much maligned for his past, there is no doubt that his signing is only going to be a good thing considering his track record.

Kasper Schmeichel is a highly regarded young goalkeeper that a number of Championship clubs (including Forest) had been linked with. He then moved to Notts County for a club record fee (I’m still not sure what the exact fee was).

The Sol Campbell incident seems to be the first sign that things were not going to go all County’s way. The whole deal seemed somewhat unbelievable from start to finish. Sol Campbell, former Premiership champion, and till as recently as May a Premiership starting defender, was signing for Notts County?

But hang on, isn’t the law in League Two that clubs cannot spend more than 80% of their turnover? Campbell’s purported £60,000 a week wages minimum were never going to be in with that. I know for a fact that this angered a number of fans of other clubs, because County got round it by various borderline legal methods.

So it was kind of funny when Sol walked out because (reportedly) the club had promised him that they were signing Roberto Carlos. The official reason doing the rounds being he didn’t any longer see the greater scope of the plans.

And then came the questions of ownership. The shady murky waters surrounding just who are Munto Finance started out more as a flippant question. Just who would spend all that money on a League Two club? The full details are still yet too out, but my and my friend the other day went with a full flight of fancy and decided its probably Osama bin Laden funding County in a new attempts to take over the world.

As I said me and my Forest supporting friends were already laughing at them for the fact that they were being like an embarrassing uncle. Saying all the wrong things and generally being someone you don’t invite round if you can. For a start the sudden proliferation of County fans must be annoying for those who have sat through the days were they toiled at pretty much the basement of the League structure. Here comes a little it of possible success and they all go crazy.

Now, add all this up and things are turning into a soap opera. A vaguely surreal soap opera. Then yesterday they sacked Ian “Charlie” McParland. I have a lot of time for Charlie. Yeah his interviews are often drawled in some kind of nonsensical mess, and he always sounds grumpy.

However, he had spent best part of 2 seasons managing a team with no resources, struggling to stay up. I think he should have been rewarded with more than a dozen games and being within frankly touching distance of the top of the table. Rome was not built in a day.

Charlie’s days were pretty much numbered when the take over was made and Sven bought in. It always seemed likely to me Sven would want his own yes man, and County fans I feel for you if David Platt gets in, I really do. The guy makes John Barnes looks odds on favourite for the Man Utd job when Fergie retires. I also feel sorry for Charlie. He must have known this would always end in tears. They just wanted the opportunity to make this decision without looking harsh. Try and make a tie in with the old era so as to try and show respect for the past.

Now it just seems County have become nothing more than at best, a farce.

Member Interview: Rosický 10

Tell us a bit about yourself, non football related.

I’m 19 years old, lived in Derbyshire all my life and consider myself as a pretty generic English male teen with regards to my hobbies and how I live my life. I have various ambitions, most of which are conflicting and I’ve been at a crossroad for nearly a year where I need to choose what I want to do and as of yet I’m still undecided. I consider myself to be of reasonable intelligence, not old enough, or well travelled enough to be truly ‘smart’, but able to conduct myself properly.

You support Forest, but supposing you were transported to a Forest covering much of prehistoric Europe. How would you cope, encountering Bears, Wolves, perhaps Mastadons as well, maybe even Neanderthals and earlier Homo Sapien settlers?

:S Thanks. Probably not too well? Requires further detail though - Have I grown up and survived in the environment so far? Have I any company?

Fuck it the lack of internet connection and football would result in suicide after a week or so, so certain death would be on the cards.

Derbyshire or especially Chesterfield you love with a passion....so why support Forest???

The simple answer is because Forest was in my life since I was 5, when the family gathered around as I was told to choose my team, whereas my ‘love’ for Derbyshire/Chesterfield wasn’t formed until I was older, as you tend not to distinguish between places too greatly at such an age.

If you could kill anyone in 24-7 land who would it be...and you MUST choose someone

Honestly - although I’d never do it :/ – probably sultan.

I actually like him and all that, but of all the regulars he strikes me as the kind of person who’d be irrelevant in real life i.e. Has no kids to lose, has no wife/girlfriend probably doesn’t move in many social circles etc. Maybe I have this wrong, but there you go. Sorry dude.

No wait. Tommys granddad - he’s lived a life that’s full…

Have you ever fallen in love?

No, or at least not in my definition of the word. I’ve had relationships with girls, had ****buddies etc. but I’ve never developed any lasting, meaningful feelings of love for anyone. I suppose I’m not really looking for anything serious though I just stumble into things.

Do you like cheesy wotsits?

Unless this is innuendo, no. I do love **** though. A lot.

If you could change any one thing in the world what would it be?

Removing poverty from Africa. Number of times I’ve considered going over with a charity and doing some work out there, but never followed through with it enough. Even despite my insignificance in such a major disease it’d feel nice to feel part of an effort to right some wrongs.

Are you homosexual? its just me and a fair few others think you are

Not at all, no. I can appreciate male beauty but that’s obviously irrelevant to what the question was based on. I just feel comfortable enough to take part in gay jokes and am guilty of finding them funny, judging by the response on here I’m certainly not alone.

What’s your opinion on orienttilidie?

Don’t really have one. He’s clearly going through a phase where he feels his word is gospel and that his life is significant. He can be a good lad to chat to regarding football, for instance the Hearn thread, but he does show his age a lot. Needs to learn to take banter better though, makes himself look a tool in the childish way he takes the bait.

Have you ever had any homosexual experiences? pehaps bith BJ todd?

Haha, no. I’ve shared beds with men after nights out when there is a lack of beds, but so has every other male on here I’m sure. I do have a feeble claim to fame of sharing a bed with a lad who’s played in the Premiership though - The bi’s on the forum will envy me.

Do you like anti newcastle jokes?

When they’re done right I love them. Don’t really like the club, so why not? FTM

After Leatherhead smashed down the Berlin Wall, invented the car and internet, served 12 years in the SAS before being promoted to 007, stopped the 1929 depression, already knows the solutions to combat cancer, aids and the current economic situation; is his recent departure a big loss to 24-7? Will the clique still be alive in 6 weeks time?

I am absolutely heartbroken that he left whilst I was out of the country. We should all note the day and agree to not post all day and unite in a mutual love for the man, the legend, the complete lie that is Leatherhead.

I still want to know if I’m in the clique btw.

Favourite Forest Player Ever and why?

Nigel Clough. I pretty much missed his first stint here, but I’ve apparently never been happier than the season he returned on loan. Not sure why my affection grew so intensely, maybe because the previous generation had Brian and Nigel was ‘my Clough’. Going to meet him again tomorrow too

During my time on the board, it's been disappointing to learn that you was one for appreciating the brilliance of David Johnson....why?

What? I’m probably his biggest critic. I was calling for him to be flogged years before his inevitable retirement. He gave us one season. I couldn’t believe the love for him when he was taking massive wages and delivering nothing, even in League One.

Predictions for next season....is it the year for Forest?

Probably not. Hard to tell when we’ve only got half a squad at the minute. With the players we’re supposed to have secured I’m excited about the football we will see and believe we can surprise a good few people, but I think it’s too early for a proper push for the big time, the clubs seem overly ambitious at the minute which although is pleasing that they seem to be targeting top 6, I am sceptical that we’re not established tightly enough in the Championship never mind trying to enter the Prem. We’ll be above the sheepshaggers though, which I’ll take as a successful season.

What would be your first question to the people of Antarctica if they were suddenly found to exist?

“Where you been hiding?” :S

There is enough research centres down there to have spotted them by now, should they exist.

If you were a god what would you do to the world?

“If” ? :S

Remove fear. It makes people hide from themselves and therefore others by association. Which means that people can never be truly happy, or satisfied with themselves or their life. Fear is the worlds biggest cancer.

If I take a look inside your refrigerator what would I find?

Lots of bacon, milk, chocolate mousse and butter. Embarrassed to say I actually got up to check it, cheers. Unquestionably fascinating to you all, I’m sure.

What do you think of people who talk to their dog and/or treat them like children?

That they’re probably insecure and unfulfilled people looking for something to focus their love upon. I can understand -in some respects- people that look for devotion in another species considering the untrustworthy and selfish nature of humans, but I’ll not be one of them.Too much love out there to waste on animals. I would be all for it to become lawful for me to line up a shot on them from 200 yards. I’ll use an air rifle and screw the site up to make it fun. Deal?

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

I already am blessed with the ability of strength and the ability to see women undressed, so those would clearly be redundant. Therefore reading peoples mind as I’ve often been known to be oblivious to the most obvious of hints and advancements.

Did you ever dream you’d be a star when you were first signed up to 24-7?

Yes, but then joining S24/7 was all a PR exercise in order to boost my reputation and join one of the top English clubs anyway. Unfortunately it was Arsenal which is why I decided to go on strike until a bigger club comes in for me. Injury, my arse.

Roh-Sis-Key, whats so great about Chesterfield?

I’ll not live that name down now. Forest Kunts. It’s full of young (17-21 year old) totty and, of all the local towns, is one of the cheapest and busiest nights. Also it’s so easy to navigate around even with no knowledge of the place.

Oh that crooked spire too. It reminds me of my penis :/

Roh-Sis-Key, you live in Derbyshire, but support Forest, do you get any stick ?

Yeah, it’s pretty relentless really. In the early years I got offended by the “he’s got a pineapple” chant that was sung at Jason Lee when it was repeated by sheepshaggers. It’s all good banter now ultimately and I love being part of it almost daily. It’s been pretty one-sided recently, sadly, with the exception of their ‘worst year in history’.

You do get a lot of Derby fans thinking it’s cool to shout obscenities when I wear the Forest shirt In Derby, but you can see why they get offended when you will never see a Derby shirt in public in Notts.

What is your first memory of Arsenal?

I remember being uncomfortable about the amount of youngsters that were here, it was more of a crèche than a club. Also watching them in training it was clear that they were so young that they’d not even reached the session where they’re introduced to the ‘shot’ and so they just tried to run the ball in. I countered this by shooting whenever and from wherever.

What is your best memory of Highbury that you were there for?

I joined the season we moved to Emirates, didn’t I?

You are trapped on a desert island, you can have one book and one album on your ipod ... what do you choose?

Of the books I read, I usually forget their titles by the time I’m halfway through the next. I tend to opt for books mixing religion and warfare of some sorts. Currently reading Blast from the past, which is abysmal, so I’ll be homo and say Cloughs walking on water and the album can be Frank Turners Love, Ire and song seeing as it’s all I’ve listened to this month.

What is your best childhood memory?

The only thing that springs immediately to mind is running up to the table to see my 5th birthday cake and being ecstatic. Pretty weak really, but the whole family was around and it is my first memory of them and I ran over to my granddad, who appeared to be my favourite family member and sadly, now deceased.

Is there anything that you fear? If so, why do you fear this?

I thought I feared heights, but that seems to be sorted, same applies with bugs etc. so I’ll say failure. Made some choices that are based on not wanting to fail as opposed to wanting to succeed which I regret. As for why, I’m not nearly clever enough to know why, other than a desire not to be some sort of laughing stock for failing at something.

Big Brother, do you watch it?

I sometimes watch them entering the house, if only see what angle the BB people are going for –and checking the talent obviously- and occasionally watch sections of some shows if I’m bored with no motivation to do anything else, but I take no notable interest in it.

Followed a couple of previous years’ though, but never religiously.

Things that are £1.99, £2.49, etc … does this not piss you off like it does me? Why not just round it off?

Not really. Designed for the psychological effect of making good appear cheaper and saves me a bit of money so alls good, right? The back pocket is designed solely for putting such change in.

What’s your favourite type of music?

Usual avoiding answering this due to me not being the best at placing music into genres and the fact that my taste is all over the place, but I’ll go for indie/rock.

Who’s your football hero? Or any sportsperson.

Nigel and Brian Clough, really, but that is far too predictable and requiring of no further explanation. Lots of players I admire but no one comes close to either of them.
Outside of football it’s Carl Froch, but again, a glance at my sig hints towards it.

Derby County, discuss.

Founded in 1884, made their best decision in appointing Brian Clough in 1967, was cheated out of a European final in 1973, luckily, and then made their biggest error in allowing Clough to leave in 1973. Not a lot has happened since that, other than being crowned worst team in history in 2008.

They have a reasonable set of fans, travel well, show up in numbers and quite flexible with their chants. Some many kunts that support them though and are overeager to leave the stadium and complain EVERYWHERE when things aren’t too golden.

Blondes, brunettes or gingers?

Brunettes, by quite some distance. Think pretty much every girl I’ve ever got with has been brunette, maybe some psychological thing as I find them lots more approachable and more interesting. For the record second is Blondes and way out in last in the gingers.

On a night out, what is your preferred drink?

Depends what I’m going for, if it’s a more sociable ‘up town with mates’ night then it’s Magners.
If it’s an all nighter & intentions on not going home it’s vodka red bulls.

I have recently fallen in love with amaretto and coke though, for it’s similarities to Dr Pepper.

I usually end up mixing beyond belief anyway and will go for anything but lager and some frog shot which is rank.

Ever had an experience that you would love to experience again?

Many but right now - Cascada live. We were very drunk, started at the back and we forced our way to the second row which included throwing fit girls out of the way to get near the front. Then just going for it for the whole set before going back for the girls that were pretty surplus earlier. Everyone was sweating so much that they’d gone topless. My phone was battered beyond repair too. Not particularly big on club music either, but it was just pure ecstasy.

What’s the best holiday you have ever been on and why?

Not been on too many in fairness, for various reasons, this years was my first since I was 12. So Magaluff - only got back the other day so I’m still wishing I was there. Was 8 days of pure drinking and womanising. Our first lads holiday together and plans for next years are already underway.

Where is the one place you would love to go on holiday?

Toss up between Praha and Belfast. The former because of its beauty and my desire to visit Czech Republic and there being plenty of sites to see. The latter because I just adore the accent in truth. I’m all game for visiting any where in Northern Ireland/Ireland. Something we’re also looking into doing next year.

Do you think you stand a chance of winning Member vs. Member when it starts again, obviously providing you enter the competition!

Haha. Not really, no. Feel free to vote for me though, regardless.

What would you say is the worst accent? Would you agree that it’s the brummie accent? It knocks me sick!

West Country that gets me, or the “farmer accent” to give it it’s nickname. I find it hard to listen to without laughing in truth.

If you were to move, where in England would you move to?

Only in England? Jesus, I’d just stick to the East Midlands. Most likely a quiet Notts village between the City Centre and Derbyshire, something Nuthal/Giltbrook/Bilborough way :/ Opens up more opportunities within Notts, close enough to keep close with mates and shortens the journey to the City Ground.

Interview compiled by Lil Yiddo with questions submitted by members of Soccer 24-7.

Barcelona’s Wasted Value On Prospects? By: IBES

These last two seasons summer transfer window has shown us that the club has a big interest in investing in the future of the club through the youth. Part of it is from the club’s own youth academy and part of it is from it deals between the club and Traffic Sports Marketing in getting players from Brazil. Unfortunately, there seems to be a disagreement between the club administrators and manager Pep Guardiola about the future of the players not coming up from the youth academy and it begs the questions of whether they are given a fair chance to impress, whether they are being loaned out properly and in the end, whether it was worth buying them.

Last season, Pedro and Victor Sanchez were promoted to the first team squad. This season, Jeffren, Fontas, Muniesa and perhaps Johnathan Dos Santos and Thiago will be getting more minutes with the first team this year. Sadly, the players that are not from the youth academy will not be getting any minutes this season due to them being loaned out. Those players are Henrique, Martín Cáceres, and Keirrison.

These last two seasons summer transfer window has shown us that the club has a big interest in investing in the future of the club through the youth. Part of it is from the club’s own youth academy and part of it is from it deals between the club and Traffic Sports Marketing in getting players from Brazil. Unfortunately, there seems to be a disagreement between the club administrators and manager Pep Guardiola about the future of the players not coming up from the youth academy and it begs the questions of whether they are given a fair chance to impress, whether they are being loaned out properly and in the end, whether it was worth buying them.

Last season, Pedro and Victor Sanchez were promoted to the first team squad. This season, Jeffren, Fontas, Muniesa and perhaps Johnathan Dos Santos and Thiago will be getting more minutes with the first team this year. Sadly, the players that are not from the youth academy will not be getting any minutes this season due to them being loaned out. Those players are Henrique, Martín Cáceres, and Keirrison.

Martín Cáceres played a bit role last season, mostly featuring in Copa Del Rey matches. He was signed from Villarreal for € 16.5 million after playing well on loan at Recreativo during the 07-08 season. He and Garay were considered the best young defenders in terms of prospects. Real Madrid got Garay and Barcelona got Cáceres.

He is currently 22 years old and a starter for his national team. He is considered more of a fullback but can also play as a center back. Guardiola tried to use him as a center back but it was clear that he was not comfortable with playing Cáceres in the starting eleven and that was very obvious in the Champions League final where he could have started as a right back in place of the suspended Dani Alves or as a center back and allow Puyol to be the right back. Guardiola opted to go with Yaya Toure instead as his starting center back.

The writing was on the wall that Guardiola was not fond of Cáceres and, in the end, Cáceres was loaned out to Juventus for the season. He had just finished playing two World Cup qualifiers for Uruguay and played in his first league game for Juventus and scored in his debut and just started for Juventus in their first Champions League game yesterday too.

All that money spent on him and Guardiola never gave Cáceres a chance to prove himself. He could have been useful as a fullback seeing as he is playing in Dani Alves’s position as a right back, which is what we currently lack and thus have to use Puyol in that position. Hopefully Guardiola’s intent was to let Cáceres start at Juve to get him the match experience to play as a backup? I just don’t see it and seems like Guardiola no longer deems him as a part of this squad for the future. The next two players are part of the pact the club has formed with Traffic Sports Marketing.

Traffic Sports Marketing is known for organizing/commercializing football tournaments and also being the owners of Miami FC and also clubs in Brazil. Sadly however, they are also known for being involved in players’ ownership by buying the football players’ rights and then being involved in the transfers. Henrique, and Keirrison have been bought by Barcelona the last two seasons.

Henrique was bought last year from Brazilian club Palmeiras and is a Traffic owned player. The center back was signed for €8 million that would increase to €10 million based on performance incentives. Not a bad price for a good prospect. Sadly, he was signed and immediately whisked away to Germany where Bayer Leverkusen accepted in him on a yearlong loan. He played in 30 games for the German club, starting in all but one match and was not too shabby.

So it was surprising that when Henrique returned to the club this past summer, Guardiola seemed intent not to count on him as part of the squad even though he could have been a valuable backup for the center back position due to the lack of depth at that position with only Rafa Marquez as the only other center back there. So in the end, he was loaned out to Racing Santander and just started this past weekend against Atlético Madrid in a 1-1 draw.

Once again, when Guardiola states he needs depth on his squad, he decides to dump two defenders? It was great that he signed Chygrynsky right at before the transfer window closed, but why get rid of two defenders and only replace one. Henrique never got a fair shake from Guardiola and begs the question if Guardiola even plans on counting on him in the future if Henrique performs well for Racing. Is he another young player that the club signed and will never use? How can a defender starting in Germany not be considered to be good enough to a substitute in a season where rotations will play a big part of the team’s plan for success.

Finally, Barcelona signed another young Brazilian prospect that also happens to be owned by Traffic and played for Palmeiras. Keirrison only cost the club €15 million thanks to a clause in contract that stipulated that he could go to Barcelona for that asking price. Unfortunately, this transfer also did not impress Guardiola and as soon as Keirrison was signed, he was being shopped around for clubs to take him on loan for a year. The final team to capture his services was the Portuguese club Benfica. However, the big concern for Keirrison is whether that move will do him any good. Keirrison is joining a Benfica team that already bought Saviola to a stable of forwards such as Weldon, Mantorras, Cardozo and Nuno Gomes.

How on earth is he supposed to get any minutes when there are that many forwards ahead of him? I cannot understand how this move will get him the experience of playing in Europe when he might not even make the bench as a substitute. He only played one game for them and that was a friendly against Celtic in Canada recently where he did score. But the fact remains that if he was loaned out to gain experience, then wouldn’t it be wise to loan him to a team that will actually use him. Also makes you wonder if Guardiola will treat him like Henrique and try to limit his preseason minutes and offload him to another club for another loan. I would have preferred sending him out to Ajax to get an option on Luis Suárez.

Now the club does have its own youth academy players who seem destined to make the jump into the first team like Puyol, Xavi and Iniesta did. Muniesa, Fontas, Jonathan Dos Santos, Assulin, and Thiago have the potential to be a long term part of this squad for many years to come. Regrettably, I cannot say the same for Henrique, Cáceres, and Keirrison. They all seem to be fine additions to the squad in a year where the squad should be rotated to stay fresh. Guardiola though thinks otherwise and who am I to judge a man who just won five cups already. However, it does raise the question of what was the purpose of buying these players? Were they bought for alternative reasons that might come back to haunt the club in the future or is this just Guardiola being stubborn and not wanting to use players he never considered or wanted to be part of the team.